SEL: Fact or Fiction?

Social-emotional learning only teaches kids about feelings.

• FACT

• Fiction

Answer explanation

Emotional intelligence (the ability to be smart about feelings) is only one of the many parts of SEL.

Social-emotional skills aren’t as important as “hard skills.”

• Fact

• Fiction

Answer explanation

Social-emotional skills are often referred to as “soft skills” but they are just as important as “hard skills.” Soft skills (sometimes called people skills) allow us to get along and work well with other people, communicate effectively, be empathetic, and solve problems. These skills can be difficult to measure but they are essential.

Kids learn social-emotional skills automatically.

• Fact

• Fiction

Answer explanation

People aren’t born knowing how to manage their emotions, get along with others and solve problems. These skills are learned over time.

There’s only one way to teach SEL.

• Fact

• Fiction

Answer explanation

There’s no one right way to teach SEL. Every child has different needs. Families have different backgrounds and cultures. Teachers, who work with a diverse group of students, can use what they know about their students to design SEL lessons in which all students can have full access and apply these skills.

92% of survey executives say skills such as problem solving and communicating clearly are equally or more important than technical skills.

• Fact

• Fiction

Answer explanation

Wall Street Journal, 2015

75% of secondary students say they want a school who prioritizes social and emotional learning.

• Fact

• Fiction

Answer explanation

Casel, 2018

SEL is only for kids with behavioral issues.

• Fact

• Fiction

Answer explanation

SEL if for all kids-and adults, too. We'll continue to develop these skills throughout our lives.

SEL and Equity are two separate programs and the current buzz words of the moment.

• Fact

• Fiction

Answer explanation

SEL can be a powerful lever for creating caring, just, inclusive, and healthy schools that support all young people in reaching their fullest potential.  SEL actively engages students in developing academic, social, and emotional skills to achieve their goals and contribute to their communities. 

92% of employers say SEL skills are as important as technical skills.

• Fact

• Fiction

Answer explanation

Wall Street Journal, 2015

SEL is a distraction from academics.

• Fact

• Fiction

Answer explanation

SEL boosts academic performance and deepens engagement with content.